49ers Expensive Offseason Raises Jauan Jennings Contract Questions

Months after John Lynch preached a more cost-effective roster building approach, the San Francisco 49ers have spent the last few weeks splurging on some key extensions. 

George Kittle was the first domino to fall, inking a four-year, $75 million deal at the end of April. San Francisco got to working on extension for quarterback Brock Purdy, finally coming to terms on a five-year, $265 million contract last week.

Then just days ago, star linebacker Fred Warner signed a three-year $63 million extension, ending the Niners' mini spending spree. 

Now these are not just handouts for no reason. Kittle, Warner and Purdy are foundational pieces for San Francisco. But it is somewhat of a change from the direction seen earlier in the offseason.  

San Francisco let a large number of free agent starters walk in free agency. They doubled down with a trade of Deebo Samuel the Washington, appearing ready to do the same with Brandon Aiyuk had they found a trade partner. 

The Niners wanted to get younger and cheaper. So considering all these moves, what does that mean for next year's free agent class and specifically wide receiver Jauan Jennings. 

Jennings took on a larger role in Kyle Shanahan's offense than in years prior because of injuries. He thrived, posting career bests of 77 receptions for 975 yards and six touchdowns. 

Ahead of training camp, Jennings is already slated for a bigger role from the start as the de facto No. 2 behind Aiyuk. The coaching staff has an affinity for Jennings, evidenced in Klay Kubiak's recent comments. 

"I think, if you ask Jauan, he says 'I'm No. 1,'" Kubiak said. "And that's his mindset and that's why we love Jauan." 

Assuming that confidence translates into a continuation of his production, Jennings will be in for handsome deal. But it will be on the Niners to either commit to Jennings. Alternatively, they would let him walk and find another deal elsewhere.